Concerns are mounting over the future of St. Kitts Marine Works, the locally developed marine-services company operated by prominent businessman, St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force Captain and corporate donor Regiwell Francis.
Francis is listed by the Defence Force as the acting Officer Commanding Bravo Company. He and St. Kitts Marine Works have also made documented equipment donations to the Police and Fire and Rescue Services over the years.
Francis says the company has stopped accepting new boat-storage bookings after losing access to a critical section of land used to accommodate vessels, particularly during the hurricane season.
He warns that the reduced space could affect charter companies, local boaters and operators requiring emergency repairs or secure storage.
Jonathan Winterburn of Blue Water Safaris Ltd. is now urging the government to reconsider, describing the boatyard as critical national infrastructure.
“The boatyard supports tourism, fisheries, commercial operators and private vessel owners,” Winterburn said.
He warned that without a local haul-out and repair facility, vessels could be forced to travel overseas for routine maintenance—resulting in higher costs, longer downtime and possible delays in essential safety inspections and repairs.
Winterburn also pointed to the wider economic impact, noting that the marine industry supports mechanics, welders, electricians, fiberglass technicians, painters, transport operators and several other small businesses.
“St. Kitts is investing in tourism and the blue economy. A functioning boatyard is an essential part of that infrastructure,” he said. “The goal should be to strengthen this important national asset, not lose it.”
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew says the matter predates his administration and rejects suggestions that it is politically motivated. He says legal representatives for both sides are engaged in discussions and that he wants an amicable outcome that is favourable to the government and the business owner.
Francis says the cancellation of the land-sale agreement and the directive to vacate key sections of the property could ultimately force St. Kitts Marine Works off the site. The government says negotiations are continuing and it wants an amicable settlement.
Should the government press ahead with actions Francis says could displace the boatyard, or should both sides reach an agreement that keeps this critical facility operating?